Congratulations! You've found the perfect home and now it's time to do the offer and finalize the deal. If you're like many people, you may be feeling a cash crunch by this time. You might be wondering why you would want to incur yet another expenditure, such as a pre-purchase home inspection. A valid consideration!

When choosing a home it's important to know whether or not the house needs work, and how much it's likely to cost. A prudent home buyer may want to make an offer to purchase "conditional upon obtaining a satisfactory inspection report.  Having the home inspected before waiving any conditions gives you the security of knowing what to expect. It helps you make an informed decision about the condition and cost of upkeep of the home.

Professional home inspectors are trained to determine the presence of otherwise unsuspected problems in the home, through clues and symptoms that an untrained eye may not connect to the problem. Equally important, is the opportunity to have a thorough explanation of how to operate and maintain the home.

Shop around and choose an inspection company wisely. Look for a professional company, and inquire about the experience of the individual inspector. Look for an inspector or company that you feel comfortable with in terms of their ability to communicate with you. Attend the inspection, and ask questions. Your real estate agent or lawyer can help you locate a reputable home inspector.

A quality home inspection includes the entire structure from roof to foundation, the interior and exterior, and all the electro-mechanical systems. A complete inspection takes 2½ to 3 hours, includes a written report, and normally costs about $400 to $450 depending on the inspection company chosen. It won't eliminate all the risk associated with home ownership, however it can be a value added, information gathering process that gives you a better understanding of your new home. And more security!